We've been following the progress of the newest addition to Long Island, Bahama Breeze and were thrilled when it finally opened! They opened about a month ago, right in the dead of winter. Maybe you think that's not the ideal time to open a restaurant that offers outdoor seating with live steel drums in the summer, but we couldn't disagree more!

We decided to go there on a day when it just began to snow. As soon as we entered, we weren't on Long Island anymore, the snow disappeared. Between the music, decor and the aroma in the air, we were transported to the Caribbean and away from the cold!

Now that we were feeling like we were in the tropics, it was time for a nice cold cocktail. We ordered the Yaka Hula Hickey Dula, their version of a rum punch, and the Ultimate Piña Colada, a classic twisted with a strawberry swirl, spiced rum and topped with dark rum. They tasted delicious and complete the whole theme of getting away to the Caribbean.

We skipped appetizers and went right for the entrees. We didn't get adventurous and ordered the fresh fish--Almond Crusted Salmon and Pan Seared Tilapia with Mango Butter. Both entrees came with string beans and while there was a choice of additional side, we both opted for Garlic Mashed Potatoes.We got cheeseburger sliders for the kids, and swapped out one of the sides. When it was brought to the table, our waitress Lisamarie noticed immediately and someone got us the right side.

The almond and breadcrumb topping was a perfect accompaniment for the salmon, giving it a sweet and nutty note. With the tilapia, it wasn't just a light pan sear, but almost charred, which gave it nice depth with the sweet and salty mango butter. Despite being so simple, our entrees were absolutely delicious. The Garlic Mashed Potatoes were a little dry and hard on the top but the taste was terrific, not too much garlic and not too little. The string beans were perfectly cooked with a nice amount of crunch, but they definitely needed salt. Easy fix.

Since we skipped the appetizer we went full ahead with dessert. Mango sorbet for the kids, and Chocolate Island and Key Lime Pie for us. The large sorbet scoop sat on top of fresh fruit, and was so refreshing--a must have if you want dessert but barely have any room! The Chocolate Island was a brownie topped with chocolate mousse, covered in a milk chocolate sauce and sitting in a vanilla bean anglaise. It was good, but probably not something I'd order again. I was looking most forward to the mousse, but the brownie was the better component. The key lime pie is made in house, and the brown sugar graham cracker crust was phenomenal!

The entire time, service was pretty good. To be honest, we had low expectations because we usually don't have any luck in this area but we were pleasantly surprised. Our waitress was excellent, making sure our needs were met and being very personable and friendly with our kids. Only issue would be the staff at the host desk. Both when we walked in and before we left (we wanted to ask where the restrooms were), it was more important for them to continue their conversation instead of greeting us or thanking us for visiting. Good think Lisamarie turned that around though, or we possibly would have walked out. Service was good where it mattered and that's what's important.

We will definitely be back, probably in the spring or summer when they open up the patio and have live music, it's something we're looking forward to!